Jinzhou history

Jinzhou, a city with a rich and centuries-old history, is one of the oldest settlements in Northeast China. Its formation and development are inextricably linked to its strategic location at the intersection of important routes and the succession of ruling dynasties.

The history of settlements on the site of modern Jinzhou spans several millennia. The first known urban settlement appeared here during the Warring States period (475-221 BC) and was named Tuhe; it was founded in the State of Yan. The city received its current name — Jinzhou — much later, during the reign of the Liao Dynasty (907-1125).

Throughout its history, Jinzhou has played a vital role due to its strategic positioning. The city is located in the so-called "Liaoxi Corridor" — a narrow coastal passage that historically served as the main gateway connecting North China with Manchuria. This made it a key military and administrative point.

Due to its strategic position, Jinzhou was constantly an arena of struggle between various dynasties and peoples. The city possessed powerful fortifications that were rebuilt and restored many times. In different eras, it came under the rule of the Khitans (founders of the Liao Dynasty), Mongols, and Manchus. After the establishment of the PRC, Jinzhou even briefly served as the capital of Liaoxi Province.

The early stage of Jinzhou's history was marked by its status as an important military-administrative centre. The city's economy was closely tied to serving the army and administrative structures. At the same time, its geographical position on a busy route facilitated the development of trade and cultural exchange between different regions, leaving a noticeable mark on its rich historical heritage.

Key Milestones in the History of Jinzhou

The history of Jinzhou is not merely dry dates, but a captivating chronicle of strategic battles, the rise and fall of great dynasties, and cultural transformations. Located at a key point of the Liaoxi Corridor, the city has been a silent witness and active participant in the most important events that shaped the face of Northeast China for millennia.

• Warring States Period (475-221 BC) — The settlement of Tuhe, part of the State of Yan, was founded on the territory of modern Jinzhou.
• Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD) — The first administrative unit of imperial China in the region — Tuhe County — was established.
• Early 4th Century — Jicheng, the capital of the Former Yan state, was located in the area of modern Yixian County, highlighting the strategic importance of this land.
• Liao Dynasty (907-1125) — The city first receives its current name, Jinzhou, and becomes an important administrative centre of the Khitan Empire.
• Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) — Jinzhou turns into a powerful fortress. The city walls are strengthened multiple times, reflecting its key military significance.
• 1642 — After a prolonged siege, the city was captured by Manchu troops, which became a significant step towards the establishment of the Qing Dynasty.
• 1665 — During the Qing Dynasty, the city receives the status of an independent prefecture (Jinzhou), strengthening its administrative position.
• 1904 — During the Russo-Japanese War, one of the significant battles for control over the approaches to Port Arthur takes place near the Jinzhou Isthmus.
• 1934 — During the existence of the state of Manchukuo, the city becomes the capital of the eponymous Jinzhou Province.
• October 1948 — The Battle of Jinzhou took place — a key engagement of the Liaoshen Campaign during the Chinese Civil War, ending in a victory for the People's Liberation Army.
• 1949 — After the proclamation of the PRC, Jinzhou was appointed the capital of the newly formed Liaoxi Province.
• 1954 — Liaoxi Province was abolished and merged with Liaodong Province, resulting in Jinzhou becoming part of the modern Liaoning Province, where it remains today.

The history of Jinzhou is a journey from an ancient settlement to a modern economic hub in Northeast China. Located in the strategically important Liaoxi Corridor, the city has witnessed the change of dynasties and key events that defined its development over the centuries.

Key Stages in Jinzhou's History:

• Ancient Origins. The first urban settlement on this site, known as Tuhe, was founded back in the Warring States period (475-221 BC) in the State of Yan. This laid the foundation for the city's future growth as an important administrative point.
• Capital Status in the Liao Dynasty. The city received its current name during the Liao Dynasty (907-1125), founded by the Khitans. During this period, Jinzhou became one of the most important cities of the empire and even served as one of the capitals, which contributed to its cultural and architectural flourishing.
• Military Outpost of the Ming Empire. In the Ming Dynasty era (1368-1644), Jinzhou turned into a powerful fortress and a key military garrison on the way to the Great Wall. The city played a crucial role in defending China's internal territories from northern threats.
• Key Role in 20th Century Events. In the mid-20th century, the city became the arena for the Liaoshen Campaign — one of the decisive battles in the history of modern China, which forever cemented its significance on a national scale. After 1949, Jinzhou briefly served as the capital of Liaoxi Province.
• Industrial Transformation. Starting from the 1950s, Jinzhou actively developed as an industrial centre. The main sectors became petrochemicals, metallurgy, mechanical engineering, and the production of building materials.
• Creation of the Seaport. The opening of the Port of Jinzhou in 1990 was a turning point in the city's modern economic history. This transformed it into an important hub for international trade and logistics on the coast of the Bohai Sea.
• Modern Economic Growth. In 1992, the Jinzhou Economic and Technical Development Zone was established, providing new impetus for attracting investment. Today, the city continues to grow as one of the significant economic centres of Liaoning Province.

The architectural appearance of Jinzhou represents a multi-layered canvas upon which key eras of its history have left their mark: from an ancient fortress and Buddhist centre to a 20th-century industrial hub and a modern metropolis. The city's urban planning reflects its transformation from a military outpost into an important economic and transport node.

Dynastic Period: From Pagodas to Fortress Walls

The earliest surviving architectural masterpieces of Jinzhou date back to the Liao Dynasty era (907-1125), when the city received its current name. The brightest example of this period is the Guangji Pagoda — an outstanding specimen of Buddhist architecture. This massive octagonal brick structure, adorned with exquisite carvings, demonstrates the characteristic features of the architecture of that time and is one of the city's main historical symbols.

During the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1912), Jinzhou acquired strategic military importance, which was reflected in its urban structure. The city was surrounded by powerful fortress walls and defensive structures, which were rebuilt and strengthened repeatedly. Although most of the walls have not survived to this day, their remains and historical descriptions testify to classic Chinese fortification architecture, subordinate primarily to the function of defence.

Industrial 20th Century: Functionalism and Soviet Influence

In the 20th century, Jinzhou's architectural landscape underwent radical changes. During the existence of Manchukuo (1932-1945), buildings appeared in a utilitarian style characteristic of Japanese colonial architecture of that time. However, the most significant transformations occurred after 1949, when Jinzhou became an important industrial centre of the PRC. Factories, plants, and residential quarters for workers were actively built in the city. This period is characterised by the Soviet model of urban planning: functional, standard buildings made of brick and concrete, wide avenues, and clear zoning of districts into industrial and residential areas.

Modern Stage: Glass, Steel, and Landscape Design

Since the end of the 20th century, with the creation of economic and technical development zones, Jinzhou has entered a new architectural era. The modern look of the city is formed by high-rise office centres, shopping and entertainment complexes, and new residential estates. Global styles utilizing glass, steel, and composite materials predominate in the architecture. A landmark event that influenced the urban environment was the 2013 World Landscape Art Exposition. This event stimulated the creation of modern parks, public spaces, and the implementation of advanced ideas in landscape design, making the cityscape greener and more comfortable for living.

Distinguished Personalities Associated with the City

The city of Jinzhou and its surroundings have become the birthplace of many people who have left a noticeable mark on the history and culture of China. From ancient rulers to modern heroes, their names are inextricably linked with this region.

• Murong Huang (297–348) — Historical figure and ruler. Founder of the Former Yan state during the Sixteen Kingdoms period. His capital, Jicheng, was located within the territory of the modern Jinzhou municipal area.
• Li Wenliang (1986–2020) — Ophthalmologist. Gained worldwide fame as one of the first medics who tried to warn about the outbreak of the COVID-19 coronavirus in Wuhan.
• Zhang Ning (born 1975) — Outstanding badminton player. She is one of the most titled athletes in the history of badminton, having won gold medals at the Olympic Games in Athens (2004) and Beijing (2008).
• Ha Jin (born 1956) — Writer and poet. A Chinese-American author writing in English. Winner of the US National Book Award and the PEN/Faulkner Award for his literary works, which often explore life in modern China.
• Gao Yulan (born 1982) and Wu You (born 1984) — Athletes (Rowing). This rowing duo won the silver medal at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London in the women's pair competition.
• Han Xinyun (born 1990) — Professional tennis player. Successfully competes in doubles, is a participant in Grand Slam tournaments, and a winner of several WTA and ITF tournaments.